The successes of a football scheme in Peterborough have been recognised and additional funding made available to secure its future.

The Gladstone Street Soccer Project was set up in July 2014 by Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Thomas Puthenpurayil. Funding was initially secured through partner agencies such as Peterborough City Council and housing associations.

An event was organised at police headquarters where the Police and Crime Commissioner, Sir Graham Bright, celebrated the work of community projects.

Panel members selecting the initiatives to highlight acknowledged the success of the project and offered a further grant to make sure it continues.

Thomas said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to secure additional funding for the project.

“It has been a great success - we continue to have a strong attendance every week of around 50 to 60 young people per session, from various cultural backgrounds.

“This has helped to break down barriers and been beneficial for cohesion in the local community.”

Sergeant Keith Pryke said: “This project has been a massive success and all credit goes to Thomas for setting it up and ensuring there is appropriate funding.”